Glossary and definitions
The definitions on this page will assist with understanding the terms used throughout this site and the Green Factor assessment tool.
General terms
| Term | Definition |
| Base score | assigned score for different building typologies in the Brisbane Green Factor Tool. |
| Bio swale | a natural, low maintenance, stormwater management system that usually includes shallow vegetated channels to catch stormwater runoff and naturally filter it. |
| Development typology | a categorised development type based on use, occupation and other identifying characteristics. |
| Ecosystem service areas | key sustainable measurables that are integral to delivering healthy urban places and align with Brisbane’s strategic objectives. |
| Element rating | a score allocated to each Brisbane Green Factor Element. |
Green elements
Large tree
Large trees are those with mature canopies of greater than 10m in width. They will typically be planted in the ground, and are specified by species type.
Medium tree
Medium trees are those with mature canopies of between 6m and 10m in width. They will typically be planted in the ground, but may be planted in planters.
Green element locations
In ground
Green infrastructure location that existed before the (re)development of the site and will be retained as part of the landscaped zone for the new building. Assumes natural ground depth.
Green wall
Vertical planting that incorporates dense multiple individual plantings, growing media, support and containment substrates, irrigation, drainage and structures into a single system.
Vegetation type
Indigenous
Indigenous vegetation comprises plants that are indigenous or locally native to Brisbane including trees, shrubs, sedges, herbs and grasses.
Native
Native vegetation comprises plants that are indigenous to Australia including trees, shrubs, sedges, herbs and grasses.